Good to know
LOCATION
The property is located on the south coast of Sri Lanka, about 78 kilometres from Galle, 208 kilometres from the centre of Colombo and 215 kilometres (approx 3.5 to 4 hours by car) from Sri Lanka's main international airport, known officially as Colombo Bandaranaike International ('CMB').
The new Hambantota International Airport ('HRI') is 78 kilometres away but has limited international flights.
The hotel itself is located in a small fisherman village on top of a hill. After leaving the main road, follow the smaller road until you reach us on the left. Our dark green gate has a wooden sign on the side with the Little Tamarind tree on. Open the gate and come on in to get up to the main hotel complex at the top of the hill.
GETTING THERE
A Sri Lankan Airlines air taxi (actually a seaplane) runs from Bandaranaike International Airport to Dickwella aerodrome, which is on the lagoon about 6 kilometres from the house. The flight time is approx 40 minutes. Tuk tuks or a minivan can be arranged to collect guests. Check with cinnamonair.com for schedules.
Otherwise a luxury mini van can be arranged to collect guests from Colombo city or the airport (approximately 3.5 hours), from Galle (approximately 2 hours), or from other hotels or villas.
If you want to come by bus you can take one of the express buses, which will take you around 3 hours from Colombo. Alternatively you firstly take a bus to Matara and from there you can easily jump into a second bus to Tangalle. Especially if you wish to save some money, this is the best option to get here.
TRANSPORT HERE
Our manager Sunny can arrange either tuk tuk or mini van transport for our guests for trips into Tangalle, day trips or to the airport.
WEATHER
The best weather runs from November through to April. The rainy season is usually from May to July, although there is still plenty of sunshine. It gets drier in the months of August and September and then there are the autumn rains in October and November. December is probably the best time for diving and snorkelling because the sea tends to be at its calmest.
CLOTHING
All you really need is light clothing by day, and then a sweater or jacket in case they are needed in the evenings (very rarely). Trainers are suitable for light touring, but if you are planning to go on long walks or trekking then you should bring appropriate hiking boots. Remember when visiting places of worship, whether as a tourist or a member of the congregation, you will be expected dress respectfully and to cover your legs, shoulders and upper arms.
VISAS
Unless you are from Singapore or the Maldives, you will require a visa for entry into Sri Lanka. You can obtain a visas either online, or from the Sri Lanka Overseas missions, or from your travel agent or operator.